according to roOdles

If Paris truly is the city of love, it seems befitting that Barque NY is set to unveil its beguiling S/S 13 collection at the capsule trade show in the picturesque French capital at the end of this month.

Defined as creating collections which represent modern interpretations of known classics, the brand restates this essence and spirit of rejuvenation within the handsome, new collection. Creative Director and designer, Gilbert Chen plays with new silhouettes combining laid back cool with luxe in the collection’s statement and on trend madras print double breasted, unconstructed blazer. Each and every item in the collection has been created to revitalize established conventions, a feat achieved by innovatively working an array of textiles into the styles. From colorful yet quintessentially summery seersucker, quirky patchwork shirting, lavish double-faced cotton, Breton stripe jersey and the sumptuous hooded, pull over sweaters,  Barque S/S 13 brings the label’s signature clean cut aesthetic up to date and introduces a new daring degree of vibrancy, fun and attitude.

While the color story remains ever true to Barque’s archetypal palette of beige, blue and navy with pops of orange and shades of grey, key pieces in the new season’s collection embody entirely new interpretations of traditional staples. Japanese denim with nautical inspired dobby takes form in a standout blazer, alongside a unique unconstructed smart jacket in patchwork shirting while button down cardigans are emboldened in drastically contrasting color and heavy jersey henleys are available in a variety of stripes. 

Indulging the elegance of its Parisian influences, from June 29 – July 1, Barque will debut the chic S/S 13 collection at the capsule trade located at Cite de la Mode, 34 Quai d’Austerlitz. Here’s a sneak peek of the Spring 2013 collection!

-R 

Being brought up by a single mother in a female dominated household, it was only natural that the tools of traditional gentlemen’s etiquette were introduced to myself at a very young age. Through the years I have exercised said etiquette and have found many of classic traditions to be a bit dated, which begs the question; how do today’s lads conduct themselves in modern day fashion? Keeping in mind that presentation is tailored to each unique individual, I casually discussed amongst co-workers & friends of all sex, ages, and backgrounds to assert a current take on the matter. Thus, I have compiled a list of modern day manners that I have found to be enhancing in everyday exchange - the Contemporary Gentlemen’s Guide to Etiquette if you will!

-A man should always offer to open the door for a lady or his guest, allowing him/her to always be the first to enter.

-While in the company of a lady, a true gentleman should always offer to walk on the side closer to the street.

-A gentleman who carries himself with great posture while being courteous and aware of others is sure to be remembered.

-While in conversation directing full attention, and eye contact is key to any successful exchange.

-Lending one’s hand to put on a coat or open a car door is considered classic and while to some it may seem out dated, the simple gesture itself is sure to be appreciated.

-A man who can speak as calmly as he can sternly is one whom is aware of when and how to use his inside voice rather than outside.

-Language is a representation of one’s character whereas foul language can cheapen one’s presence.

-A gentlemen will always and without question give up his seat to a child, lady, expecting mother, or elderly person of any sex.

-To boast or discuss of money is usually unnecessary, try to avoid the topic whenever possible.

-Last but not least, treat others as you would have them treat you.

Having that said, the elegance of every man is a reflection of who he is and no list can unveil that. I pride myself in exercising what I deem to be.

-R

One of the greater pleasures in life are the small yet beautiful encounters had by one another; the impact that each individual can bestow upon each other is a powerful one indeed. Introduced to me last summer through the charming William Buckley, Rosa Kaftan is a divine combination of beauty, Kurdish panache, and English charm who has made quite an impact both as a friend and co-worker. Shortly after meeting our friendship became long distance and our few months apart felt more like several, long cold winters. However, in February she made her return to New York and came bearing a thoughtful gift, her favorite read The God of Small Things. Beautifully quailed by Indian author Arundhati Roy, the Man Booker Prize winning novel tells a breathtakingly bitter sweet tale.

Set in Ayemenem pronounced ‘Aymanam’ now part of Kottayam in the Kerala state of India, The God of Small Things is the story of two fraternal twins, Rahel and Estha and the poignant experiences they encounter told non linearly by way of time. Amid Roy’s poetic prose, is the hauntingly dark history of Ammu Ipe, mother to the twins, a battered divorcé raised in a troubled home who carries a heavy hearted past which inflicts upon her children’s up bringing.

While Rahel & Esta like many twins share almost everything; a passion for ‘The sound of music’, answering as one, and a dark secret that can seal there father’s fate. The narrative is colored by the characters of Baby Kochamma and Chakko which balances the grim betrayals of Pappachi and Velutha between Ammu’s immediate family.The purposely dark yet extravagant piece of literature conveys the little things that effect an individual’s life while touching on communism, the caste system, and the Keralite Syrian Christian way of life.

Fancying ourselves ‘The same yet different’, Rosa and I were both drawn to a particular exchange between Ammu and her daughter Rahel as she asks “D’ you know know what happens when you hurt people?” the frightened daughter Rahel replies in the smallest voice “What?” and her mother’s chilling response “When you hurt people, they begin to love you a little less. That’s what careless words do, they make people love you a little less.” Unsettling in every way, it’s needless to say the exchange between Ammu and her daughter will haunt our use of words forever.

I strongly suggest picking up a copy of Roy’s debut novel and as the book itself reads “It didn’t matter that the story had begun, because Kathakali discovered long ago that the secret of the Great Stories is that they have no secrets. The Great Stories are the ones you have heard and want to hear again. The ones you can enter anywhere and inhabit comfortably. They don’t deceive you with thrills and trick endings.” I think it is very safe to say, it is no secret that The God of Small Things is one such Great Story.

-R & RK

P.S. Thank you Rosie Cheeks it’s truly an honor to call you a friend. 

For three lovely years the beautiful Jackson Heights community in Queens New York has been my safe place to call home and I have had the pleasure of attending many of the multi cultural festivities this borough has to offer. The very colorful and vibrant Queens Pride Parade is one of my personal favorites, not only for the exotic local eats and exuberant characters it draws but also as my dear friend Chris Calvert alongside Hank Krumholz serve as a co-chairs to the annual celebration.

Founded in 1992 The Queens Lesbian and Gay Pride Committee honor the courage of Juilo Rivera, a young lad who was murdered at the local school yard of P.69 in early 1990. Alongside the the efforts of the Rivera family, the Queens Pride committee continue to pay homage by spreading awareness creating a safer place for the gay community! “When we first started this parade, it was our hope to open the hearts and minds of Queens residents,” said NYC Council Member and Queens Pride Founder Daniel Dromm (D-Queens). “Sunday’s parade was proof that we have accomplished just that. For 20 years, the ‘borough of nations’ has come together to celebrate our rich diversity and embrace our lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community. But this year’s parade was especially gratifying given the recent progress we have seen for gay rights. The record crowd that came out for the celebration is a testament to the growing acceptance of LGBT people and is indicative of how far we have come.”

Having the honor of being a gay man myself and the opportunity to once work alongside Chris Calvert, I must say that he and all the chivalrous efforts of the Queens Pride volunteers are greatly appreciated, honored and not to be taken lightly. When I was introduced to Calvert nearly six years ago, I had no idea what this quirky albino was capable of; his wholesome honesty, dedication to his husband Andrew Ronan, and ability to orchestrate both his charitable duties and career as a city planner have inspired myself and I assure you others. With more then 70 contingents in participation, two stages full of entertainment and a slew of yummy vendors, the 20th Queens Pride Parade was a day to be celebrated indeed.

Specifically since BRPR’s pop artist Bekele took to the stage performing her naughty disco tracks ‘Popstitute’ & ‘No strings attached’ and a surprise cover of Aretha Frankin’s ‘A deeper love’. A sneaky behind the scenes video is soon to come, until then I would like to thank my beautiful friends for coming out and I must concur with Barret Wertz when he says ‘Queen Pride.. apparently it’s serious!’ referring to the beautiful rainbow casting over that divine  June 3rd day.

Side Note: Chris I am happy to see the purple stripe is still in motion! 

-R

When I first met Andrew, his dark yet artistic charm was both inviting and intriguing. I have had the pleasure to gaze upon just a few of his designs, however when I was told that he would be unveiling his first curated installation, my response was simply - Andrew… Yes!

Positioned at 371 Madison Street in the LES of Manhattan, BOFFO show house and honorary designer Andrew Yes have transformed the 1908 Charles Snyder Public School into four individual installations of nature, play, work, and future. In just one year of planning, three months of real estate scouting, and a quick two weeks of installation, a very avant-garde sense of living can now be beheld. 

The stunning two floored tropical wall paper illustrated by Pablo Patti serves as a canvas for the Nature room while the ample bark family table by Spacecutter is adorned with porcelain hammers serving a modern taste of nostalgia to nature’s habitat. The green undergrowth hanging fixtures complete the ‘once upon a time’ atmosphere, while a Dry Aquarium is striking yet still. A metallic gold skull and neon aqua plants embody Andrew’s vision, “I could never keep up a 17’ tall tropical fish tank, so I created a neon surrealist feeling of a grotto by the sea” he explains. The second floor offers a steel mirror and lighting by Pelle with pillow balls by Andrew Yes himself.

At first glance the colorful stained glass house is almost too precious that one wouldn’t dare venture forth, that is until you can’t wait to Play… The high volume and vibrantly colored room offers a mixture of texture fun in fabrics, floor pieces, and yes, a dreamy doll house! Climbing up to the second floor are colorful ladders leading to a balloon light fixture which illuminates graffiti covered walls, awakening one’s inner child.

Strategic in every way, the the Muldar furniture shelving is displayed upon mirrored flooring and the engrossed aerial activates a sense of creativeness. A time capsule to invent and focus on work and projects, the Joe Robbins desk and light fixture are simplistic in design yet eye catching and captivating, epitomizing the esthetics of the modern Work room.

Future, a room best suited for Andrew Yes himself is black as night, with hues of neon lighting bouncing off foam floor creations by Antonio Pio Saracino. The galaxy like living quarters are as calm as intentionally bizarre. Araranda Lash side tables boast the furniture provided by Creation Bauman meanwhile upstairs the laser beam lit room houses sparkling and enchanting mannequins!

Showcasing a combination of artists, designers, galleries, and showrooms the four rooms of the 120 unit building went on display from May 15th - June 4th 2012. While discussing the project over champagne with Andrew, the event was complete when he chose the word ‘LOVE’ to describe his collaboration The Dry Aquarium with the talented Eduardo Garza… Bravo Andrew Yes! I strongly suggest keeping an eye out for future projects and ordering yourself a fun ball pillow!

-R

My dear friend Marcus & Andrew Yes! 

It’s a great pleasure indeed when a wonderful friend like Christopher Blomquist of Sportswear International invites you to the Patricia Field store opening, especially when an introduction to the fabulous Pat Field is had and a moment to be cherished is created.

After six enchanting years, the Patricia Field team closed shop and skipped just two doors down to 306 Bowery. “I was building my Barbie dream house” explains Fields, in between cigarette drags, exhausted with the politics of landlords, “it was like landlords holding a knife at my throat, so I bought my business”! Transforming said dream house to a 400sq foot retail space with the commercial addition of 296 Elizabeth store front, Field’s daring fans now have a new space to call home.

“I’m doing an interview right now, let’s KiKi inside”, shouted Patricia Field while confessing that she no longer takes on large styling projects such as television series’ and elongated movie productions. The famed Sex & The City stylist has devoted her efforts to retail, creating a destination for her beloved friends, fans, and devoted clientele whose individuality epitomize the Patricia Field lifestyle.

The re-introduced home front to the Patricia Field retail location, remains as it was while inhabited. Keeping it as a place to call home, Field left much of her personal art collection, and what was once a place to rest her head is now a tropical themed hair salon. Complete with steel glass light structure, the indoor/outdoor shop is a disco canvas to many of my personal favorite designer friends such as; Deryck Todd, Rojas, and Stud Muffin by Kyle Brincefield, who I once upon a time cocktailed with at Barracuda. Alongside the striking designs were a few fashion favorites; Patrick McDonald, Trevor Larson, and Fashion Snoop’s Heather Lunny. Stylist Sofia Karvela struck my fancy with the beautiful head piece she picked up that night at the shop.

I strongly suggest stopping into the Patricia Fields location positioned at 306 Bowery/ 298 Elizabeth Street, as she explained that she has been there almost every day lately!

-R

Please see some images captured during the evening and a quick KiKi of a video…